Frequently Asked Questions for International Students

This comprehensive FAQ section addresses the most common questions from international students about CUET, studying in India, and the application process.

🎓 CUET and Application Process

General CUET Questions

Q: What is CUET and why is it important for international students? A: CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is India’s single largest entrance examination for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in 54+ central universities and other participating institutions. For international students, it provides a standardized pathway to prestigious Indian universities with a single test score.

Q: Can international students apply for CUET from their home country? A: Yes, international students can apply online from their home country through the official CUET portal. The application process is completely online, and students can take the exam at designated international centers.

Q: How many international centers are available for CUET? A: CUET is conducted at 12 international centers across GCC countries and Jordan:

• UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
• Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam
• Qatar: Doha
• Kuwait: Kuwait City
• Bahrain: Manama
• Oman: Muscat, Salalah
• Jordan: Amman

Q: When is CUET conducted for international students? A: CUET is conducted annually during May-June. International students appear for the exam simultaneously with Indian students at designated international centers. The exact dates are announced on the official CUET website.

Application Questions

Q: What documents are required for CUET application? A: Essential documents include:

• Valid passport (all pages)
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• AIU equivalence certificate (if applicable)
• Language proficiency scores (if required)
• Personal and contact information

Q: How do I select subjects for CUET UG? A: Subject selection should be based on:

• Desired university program requirements
• Your academic strengths
• Career goals
• University-specific subject combinations Consult university admission guidelines for specific subject requirements.

Q: Can I change my selected subjects after application? A: Subject changes are allowed only during the correction window, typically announced in April. Limited changes are permitted based on availability and university requirements.

Q: What is the application fee for international students? A: The fee structure includes:

• Registration Fee: INR 650 (USD 8.85 / AED 32.50)
• Per Subject Fee: INR 750 (USD 10.20 / AED 37.50)
• Processing Fee: INR 500 (USD 6.80 / AED 25.00)

📚 Academic and Eligibility

Eligibility Questions

Q: Who is eligible to apply as an international student? A: International students eligible to apply include:

• Foreign Nationals (non-Indian passport holders)
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
• Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
• Students from international school systems

Q: Are 12th-grade qualifications from my country recognized in India? A: Most international qualifications are recognized, including:

• Cambridge International (IGCSE, A-Levels)
• International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma)
• American High School Diploma
• National curricula of GCC countries
• However, AIU (Association of Indian Universities) equivalence may be required.

Q: Do I need an AIU equivalence certificate? A: AIU equivalence certificates are required for:

• Students from non-standard international boards
• Qualifications not automatically recognized
• Specific professional programs Many standard international qualifications (IB, A-Levels) are automatically recognized.

Q: What are the minimum academic requirements? A: Minimum requirements typically include:

• Completed 12th grade or equivalent
• 45-50% aggregate marks (varies by university)
• Required subjects for chosen program
• Age limit usually 17-25 years (varies by program)

Academic Preparation

Q: How should I prepare for CUET from my home country? A: Preparation strategies include:

• Study NCERT textbooks (recommended by NTA)
• Practice sample papers and mock tests
• Focus on subjects relevant to your chosen program
• Use online preparation resources
• Join online study groups or forums

Q: Are CUET preparation materials available for international students? A: Yes, preparation resources include:

• Official CUET website with sample papers
• Online coaching platforms
• SATHEE portal with free preparation materials
• Previous year question papers
• Subject-specific study guides

Q: Can I take CUET in languages other than English? A: CUET is available in 13 languages including English. International students can choose English as their medium of examination or select other available languages.

💰 Fees and Financial Information

Tuition and Living Costs

Q: What is the cost of studying in India for international students? A: Annual costs typically include:

• Tuition Fees: INR 300,000-800,000 (USD 4,084-10,890)
• Hostel/PG: INR 60,000-240,000 (USD 817-3,267)
• Living Expenses: INR 100,000-200,000 (USD 1,361-2,722)
• Total Annual Cost: INR 460,000-1,277,000 (USD 6,262-17,383)

Q: Are there scholarships available for international students? A: Yes, scholarship opportunities include:

• ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) scholarships
• Specific university scholarships for international students
• Merit-based scholarships
• Country-specific bilateral agreements
• Research fellowships for postgraduate students

Q: How can I pay tuition fees from my home country? A: Payment methods include:

• International credit/debit cards
• Wire transfers through banks
• Online payment gateways
• Foreign currency exchange services
• Educational loans from home country banks

Payment-Related Questions

Q: Can I pay CUET fees in my local currency? A: Yes, payment gateway supports multiple currencies:

• UAE Dirham (AED)
• Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Qatari Riyal (QAR)
• Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
• Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
• Omani Rial (OMR)
• Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Q: Are there additional charges for currency conversion? A: Banks and payment gateways may charge:

• Currency conversion fees (1-3%)
• Transaction processing fees
• Bank transfer charges
• These vary by bank and payment method.

🛂 Visa and Immigration

Student Visa Questions

Q: When should I apply for a student visa? A: Apply for student visa after:

• Receiving confirmed admission offer
• Paying first-year tuition fees
• Receiving admission confirmation letter
• Typically 2-3 months before course start date

Q: What documents are required for student visa? A: Required documents include:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Admission letter from Indian university
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Proof of financial support
• Medical fitness certificate
• Police clearance certificate
• Passport-size photographs

Q: How long does student visa processing take? A: Processing times vary by country:

• UAE, Qatar, Oman: 5-7 working days
• Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain: 7-10 working days
• Expedited processing available with additional fees

Q: Can I work part-time on a student visa? A: Regulations for part-time work:

• Generally not permitted for most student visas
• Research students may have limited work opportunities
• Internships may be allowed with university approval
• Check specific visa conditions for your country

Post-Arrival Questions

Q: What is FRRO registration? A: FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office) registration is:

• Mandatory for all international students staying > 6 months
• Required within 14 days of arrival
• Involves biometric registration
• Valid for entire course duration

Q: What medical tests are required? A: Medical requirements include:

• Medical fitness certificate from home country
• HIV test (required for student visa)
• Chest X-ray for TB screening
• Vaccination records
• Some universities require additional medical tests

🏠 Accommodation and Living

Housing Questions

Q: What accommodation options are available for international students? A: Accommodation options include:

• University hostels (most common and recommended)
• Private PG accommodations
• Shared apartments
• Service apartments
• Homestays (limited availability)

Q: How much does accommodation cost? A: Monthly accommodation costs:

• University Hostels: INR 5,000-20,000 (USD 68-272)
• PG Accommodations: INR 8,000-25,000 (USD 109-341)
• Shared Apartments: INR 15,000-40,000 (USD 204-545)

Q: Are university hostels safe for international students? A: University hostels provide:

• 24/7 security
• Wardens and staff support
• Mess facilities
• Study areas
• Medical facilities
• Generally considered safe and convenient

Daily Life Questions

Q: What is the food like for international students? A: Food options include:

• University mess with diverse cuisine
• Halal food available in most institutions
• International food courts in major cities
• Cafeterias with multiple food options
• Self-cooking facilities in some accommodations

Q: Will I face language barriers in India? A: Language considerations:

• English is widely spoken in educational institutions
• Hindi helps for daily interactions
• Regional languages vary by state
• Most universities have English as medium of instruction
• International student offices provide language support

Q: How do I manage banking and finances in India? A: Banking options include:

• Open local bank account with passport and visa
• Use international credit/debit cards
• ATM access with international cards
• Online banking services
• Mobile payment apps (limited for international students)

🎯 Academic Life and Support

University Life Questions

Q: What is the academic environment like in Indian universities? A: Academic features include:

• Rigorous academic standards
• Diverse student population
• Experienced faculty members
• Research opportunities
• Cultural and extracurricular activities
• Focus on theoretical and practical knowledge

Q: What support services are available for international students? A: Support services include:

• International student offices
• Academic counseling
• Mental health support
• Career guidance
• Language support programs
• Cultural adaptation programs

Q: How do I handle academic difficulties? A: Academic support resources:

• Faculty consultation hours
• Tutoring services
• Study groups
• Academic advisors
• Online learning resources
• Peer mentoring programs

Cultural Adaptation Questions

Q: How can I adapt to Indian culture? A: Adaptation strategies:

• Participate in orientation programs
• Join international student associations
• Learn about local customs and traditions
• Be open-minded and respectful
• Connect with other international students
• Explore your local area safely

Q: Is India safe for international students? A: Safety considerations:

• University campuses generally very safe
• 24/7 security in most institutions
• Emergency helplines available
• International student support networks
• Safe accommodation options
• Regular safety briefings and updates

📞 Communication and Technology

Connectivity Questions

Q: How can I stay connected with family back home? A: Communication options:

• Free Wi-Fi on most campuses
• International calling apps (WhatsApp, Skype)
• Local SIM cards for mobile communication
• Video calling facilities
• Email and social media access

Q: What about internet and phone services? A: Communication infrastructure:

• High-speed internet on campus
• Mobile networks with good coverage
• Affordable data plans
• International calling packages
• Multiple service providers to choose from

🏥 Healthcare and Wellness

Medical Questions

Q: What healthcare facilities are available? A: Healthcare services include:

• University medical centers
• Hospital tie-ups for emergencies
• Insurance coverage requirements
• 24/7 medical emergency services
• Mental health counseling
• Pharmacy services on campus

Q: Is health insurance mandatory? A: Health insurance requirements:

• Mandatory for all international students
• Minimum coverage of INR 500,000 (USD 6,800)
• Coverage for hospitalization and emergencies
• Can be purchased through university or private providers

📅 Important Dates and Deadlines

Timeline Questions

Q: What are the key dates for international students? A: Important dates typically include:

• February-March: CUET registration and application
• April: Correction window
• May-June: CUET examination
• July: Result declaration
• August-September: University counseling and admissions
• September-October: Visa application and travel

Q: When should I start the application process? A: Recommended timeline:

• 6-8 months before: Research universities and programs
• 4-6 months before: Prepare documents and start application
• 2-3 months before: CUET registration and preparation
• 1-2 months before: Visa application process

🆘 Emergency and Support

Emergency Contacts

Q: Who should I contact in case of emergency? A: Emergency contacts include:

• University International Office: First point of contact
• Indian Embassy: Consular assistance
• Home Country Embassy: National assistance
• Emergency Services: Police 100, Ambulance 108
• University Helpline: Available 24/7

Q: What support is available for mental health? A: Mental health resources:

• University counseling centers
• Trained mental health professionals
• Peer support groups
• Crisis helplines
• International student support networks

📊 Success Tips and Advice

General Advice

Q: What are the keys to success as an international student in India? A: Success factors include:

• Academic Preparation: Prepare thoroughly for CUET
• Cultural Adaptation: Be open to new experiences
• Time Management: Balance academics and personal life
• Network Building: Connect with peers and faculty
• Health Management: Maintain physical and mental health
• Financial Planning: Budget wisely and plan ahead

Q: How can I make the most of my time in India? A: Maximizing your experience:

• Participate in cultural activities
• Travel and explore different regions
• Learn about Indian history and traditions
• Build lifelong friendships
• Focus on academic excellence
• Plan for future career opportunities

📚 Additional Resources

Helpful Websites

• Official CUET Portal: https://cuet.samarth.ac.in
• NTA Website: https://nta.ac.in
• Indian Visa Online: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
• AIU Website: https://www.aiu.ac.in
• Study in India: https://www.studyinindia.gov.in

Contact Information

General Queries:

• Email: international@cuet-support.in
• Phone: +91-XXXXXXXXXX
• WhatsApp Support: Available in multiple languages

Regional Support:

• Middle East: Country-specific coordinators available
• Southeast Asia: Regional representatives
• Other Regions: Contact international student office

❓ Still Have Questions?

If you don’t find answers to your specific questions here, please don’t hesitate to contact our international student support team. We’re here to help you throughout your journey to studying in India.

Last updated: October 2024 | Valid for CUET 2024-25 academic session